the harsh words that followed. >> reporter: president obama hugged victims of gun violence gathered in the rose garden. he lashed out at the senate for failing to pass gun legislation. >> a majority of senators voted yes to protecting more of our citizens with smarter background checks. but by this continuing disorganization of senate rules, a minority was able to block it from moving forward. >> the amendment is not agreed to. >> reporter: the senate fell short of the required 60 votes to mandate background checks for people who buy guns at shows and over the internet. the bill's failure is a victory for the nra. the president accused the nra and some lawmakers are spreading misinformation. >> the gun lobby and its aly s llies willfully lied about the bill. >> we should be especially careful to safe guard the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens. >> reporter: others said the bill won't curb gun violence. >> expanded background checks would not prevent newtown. criminals do not submit to background checks. >> reporter: the president had a message for voters who support backgro